Who Is At Risk For Electrocution At Work?

In the modern world, electricity is a part of our lives from the time we wake up in the morning until the time we go to bed. Anyone who works indoors, and some of us who don't, rely on electricity in order to do our jobs. At this point, many of us may take the convenience of electricity for granted without considering the very real dangers.

While those who work directly with electricity may be at a higher risk of electrocution, any worker who uses electricity for daily tasks could potentially be electrocuted. Employees who suffer electrical injuries are likely to be out of work for extended periods, and many tragically die in these accidents. Sadly, most electrocutions could be avoided if employers would practice better safety standards.

How Do Electrical Accidents Happen?

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), most electrical accidents can be traced back to one of three main causes:

• Unsafe equipment or installation
• Unsafe work environment
• Unsafe work practices

It's absolutely vital for employers to make sure electrical systems are properly insulated, guarded, and grounded. Additionally, workplaces should have electrical protective devices, and employees should be trained in safe work practices.

When an electrical injury is caused by gross negligence, the injured employee may have the option to seek additional damages outside of Workers' Comp in a personal injury claim.

Types Of Injuries

Electrical injuries happen when current passes through the body. According to MedlinePlus, there are three main categories for electrical injuries:

• Cardiac arrest
• Muscle, nerve, and tissue destruction
• Thermal burns

The heart, muscles, and brain are the most vulnerable body parts for internal damage. All types of electrical injuries are eligible for Workers' Comp, and in some cases, other forms of compensation.

Compensation Options

If you or a loved one has been involved in an electrical accident at work, there are a few possible routes for financial compensation. Treatment for these serious injuries can be quite costly, so it's important to consider all of your options.

Workers' Comp

In Pennsylvania, just about every injured worker is entitled to benefits from Workers' Compensation. If your claim is accepted, you will receive compensation for medical expenses and about 2/3 of your lost wages. However, many workers struggle to receive their benefits in a complicated claims process.

Injured workers may face roadblocks from their employer and his or her insurance carrier. These insurance companies profit from paying out as little money as possible. A seasoned work injury lawyer will know what needs to be provided for a successful claim and how to circumnavigate the insurance company's efforts to deny coverage.

Social Security Disability

If your injury is severe enough to prevent you from returning to work for a year or more, you may qualify for benefits through Social Security Disability. Like Workers' Comp claims, this process is complex and requires a great deal of evidence and documentation of your injuries. Many claims are denied the first time, but having experienced legal counsel by your side makes it much more likely that your claim will be accepted.

Personal Injury

In accidents which were caused by a third party's negligence, victims may seek compensation in a personal injury claim. While you're usually not permitted to sue your employer, there are exceptions for egregious violations of safety standards.

If you work in the construction industry, you likely share your job site with a variety of third parties. If someone other than your employer acted negligently and caused your accident, you may hold them liable for damages. Examples include independent contractors, other subcontractors, and property owners.

Relevant Information

• How workers and employers are affected by Workers' Compensation
• How injured electricians can be compensated
• Work-related muscle and nerve injuries